Above average flows on Colorado’s Arkansas River have prompted managers of the company to stay open a week later than normal, according to Travis Hochard, general manager, River Runners.

“A combination of higher than normal water levels and an early Labor Day weekend have prompted us to extend the season,” Hochard said. “We have already had an epic year of whitewater, but it’s not over yet.”

As of August 5, 2014, the Arkansas River is running 801 cubic feet per second (cfs) in the Pine Creek and the Numbers; 935 cfs in the Browns Canyon; and 1,040 cfs in the Royal Gorge, according to the United States Geological Survey’s (USGS) website.

Late-season rafting trips are usually much less crowded and the weather is typically warm and mild, according to Jon Treleani, head boatman, River Runners.

“The months of August and September are great times to go whitewater rafting in Colorado – especially in a year like this where the water levels are more like what we normally see mid-summer,” Treleani said.

COMPANY INFORMATION
At River Runners you can choose from two convenient rafting locations on the Arkansas River. The River Runners at Fisherman’s Bridge is a riverside location just five miles south of Buena Vista, Colorado; and the River Runners Royal Gorge Rafting Center is just one hour southwest of Colorado Springs. You can choose from beginner, intermediate and advanced whitewater on half-day, full-day and overnight rafting trips. Call 800-723-8987 or book online today.